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STAR of the South has welcomed the federal government's consultation on the first stage of Offshore Electricity Regulations as the latest positive development for accelerating the sector. As Australia’s first and most progressed offshore wind project, Star of the South has the potential to be operating off the south coast of Gippsland in Victoria before the end of the decade. The commencement of this latest consultation process is a welcome sign that government is serious about facilitating offshore wind development. It will be critical for ongoing industry and regional economic development that the next steps - including finalising the regulations and getting on with the first projects - occurs as soon as possible. Ongoing coordination between federal and state governments is also required to address potential environmental, social, and economic impacts and benefits, as projects progress through necessary planning approval processes. “A local offshore wind sector will deliver clean energy, cut emissions, and create jobs for Australians. Now is the time to make it happen by keeping momentum and prioritising the Gippsland coast for offshore wind development,” Star of the South chief development officer Erin Coldham said. “We welcome the first stage of regulations and acknowledge the extensive work by the Australian government to date – this is great progress. “We look forward to participating in the government consultation process, to provide feedback on timely, fit for purpose, and appropriately staged regulations and oversight. “Offshore wind projects have long lead times – this is especially true in new markets like Australia where no offshore wind projects have previously been built, so momentum from government, investors and developers will need to continue at pace to help offset the loss of existing generation and for new opportunities to be realised.”

 Maffra Uniting Church will hold its first street stall in over two years on Friday, April 1, 2022, from 8am. Delicious cakes, slices, jams and preserves for sale, plus a fabulous raffle. Cash only. Look for the Rotary Street Stall caravan outside the Maffra Post Office, Johnson Street, Maffra.  Avon Anglican Family Fun Fair and Pet Show will take place in Stratford on Saturday, April 2, 2022, from 10am until 2pm, entry is free and all children’s activities are free to enter. On offer is music, a low cost lunch and barbecue also many family activities including a Popular Pet show with registrations at 10.15am.  St Vincent de Paul monthly garage sale will take place on Saturday, April 2, 2022, at the Jack Kelly store, Laura Street, Maffra from 9am until 10.30am.  Two events will take place this week in support of local Briagolong woman, Georgia Rose a National Finalist in the 2022 Miss Galaxy Pageant Australia raising much needed funds for the Make a Wish foundation. The first is a Gatsby night to be held at Kilmany Park Estate in the mansion on Thursday, March 31, 2022 from 6pm until 9pm. Ticketing details; www.eventbrite.com. au/e/make-a-wish-gatsby-fundraiser-galaevent-at-kilmany-homestead-wurruktickets-293761918807 . The second event will be a High Tea at the Soldiers Memorial Hall, Valencia Creek on Saturday, April 2, 2022, from 2pm until 4pm. Ticketing details; www.eventbrite.com. au/e/make-a-wish-high-tea-fundraiservalencia-creek-hall-tickets-295601400747.  The Rotary Club of Maffra Community Market will be held on Sunday, April 3, 2022, at the Island Reserve, McMahon Drive, Maffra (at the back of Woolworths car park) from 9am until 12.30pm. Everyone welcome.  Maffra RSL is seeking expressions of interest from schools and community groups that would like to participate in ANZAC Day services. Please contact secretary Jaz Prow via email maffrarsl@ gmail.com